Germany’s DekaBank has achieved a cryptocurrency custody license from BaFin, the country’s financial regulator, and the European Central Bank (ECB). 

The license, granted under Germany’s Banking Act (KWG), allows DekaBank to securely manage and store cryptocurrencies for its clients.

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Regulatory Wins For Germany’s DekaBank 

DekaBank Gets Green Light for Crypto Custody from BaFin and ECB!

In a groundbreaking move for the German banking sector, DekaBank has secured approval from both BaFin and the ECB to offer crypto custody services, joining the ranks of traditional banks venturing into digital… pic.twitter.com/tQ3DzWpcn1

— Cryplish Crypto (@Lutcheann) December 22, 2024

This is not DekaBank’s first foray into blockchain and digital assets this year. 

In July 2024, the bank secured a license to operate as a crypto securities registrar. This enables DekaBank to issue blockchain-based digital securities without relying on a central securities depository (CSD), streamlining processes and reducing intermediaries—a hallmark of blockchain innovation.

DekaBank has also been instrumental in developing blockchain infrastructure through its founding role in SWIAT (Secure Worldwide Interbank Asset Transfer), a platform designed for digital securities issuance. 

SWIAT has attracted major players like Standard Chartered and Landesbank Baden-Württemberg (LBBW). 

Notably, Siemens utilized SWIAT in September 2024 to issue a €300 million digital bond, highlighting the growing adoption of blockchain in corporate finance.

Germany’s Evolving Crypto Landscape

DekaBank’s achievement comes amidst significant regulatory developments in Germany. 

The recently passed Supervision of Crypto Markets Act (KMAG), part of the broader Digitalization of Financial Markets Act (FinmadiG), aligns Germany’s crypto regulations with the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA).

KMAG replaces older national rules with MiCA’s unified framework, enabling institutions like DekaBank to expand their crypto operations across Europe

BaFin Recently Issued 11 Other Crypto Custody Licenses

This move follows a similar achievement by Commerzbank, which became the first traditional German bank to secure a crypto custody license last year. 

While BaFin has issued 11 other crypto custody licenses, these have primarily gone to crypto-native companies such as Hauck Aufhäuser Lampe Privatbank’s digital asset arm.

What sets DekaBank apart is its regulatory framework. Unlike licenses granted to crypto-specific firms, DekaBank’s approval falls under stricter traditional banking regulations. This distinction not only underscores its legitimacy but also reflects a broader trend of established financial institutions integrating blockchain technology into their services.

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